Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Chocolate Swirl Recipe

Introduction

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Chocolate Swirl combine the classic gooey texture of marshmallow cereal bars with rich peanut butter and a decadent chocolate swirl topping. This easy no-bake dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (for the base)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (about 5 1/2 cups)
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (for the topping)
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier removal. Set aside while you prepare the mixture.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and 1 cup peanut butter together, stirring frequently until smooth and fully combined.
3. Step 3: Add the mini marshmallows and stir until they melt completely and the mixture is cohesive and glossy.
4. Step 4: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. Fold quickly and thoroughly to coat all the cereal before the mixture cools and sets.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it down gently using a spatula or wax paper to create an even layer without compacting too firmly.
6. Step 6: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the remaining 1 cup of peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and pourable.
7. Step 7: In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips using the same microwave method, stirring until fully melted and silky.
8. Step 8: Pour the melted peanut butter over the base and spread it evenly to cover the surface. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top in lines or dollops, then use a toothpick or butter knife to swirl the two together in a marbled pattern.
9. Step 9: Allow the bars to set at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, or refrigerate for about 45 minutes if you need them to set more quickly. The topping should be firm before slicing.
10. Step 10: Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife blade between slices. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Tips & Variations

• For a thicker topping, use a smaller pan so the base layer is denser and the peanut butter-chocolate swirl stands out more.
• Substitute crunchy peanut butter for a bit of added texture in both the base and topping.
• Try adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before the topping sets for extra flavor contrast.
• If you prefer a softer bar, store refrigerated treats at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Storage

Store these treats at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. If chilled, let bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften the texture. Avoid freezing as it may alter the chewy consistency.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cereal instead of Rice Krispies?

Yes, you can swap Rice Krispies for similar puffed rice cereal or even a crispy corn cereal, but the texture and flavor might vary slightly.

What if I don’t have a microwave to melt the peanut butter and chocolate?

You can melt both peanut butter and chocolate gently in a double boiler on the stove, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Chocolate Swirl Recipe

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4.7 from 137 reviews

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Chocolate Swirl combine the classic crispy, gooey base with a rich peanut butter layer topped with a luscious chocolate swirl. This no-bake dessert is quick to prepare, delightfully chewy with a perfect balance of peanut buttery flavor and sweet chocolate, making it a favorite snack or treat for all ages.

• Author: Nethan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including setting time)
• Yield: 20 bars 1x
• Category: Peanut Butter Treats
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Base:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (about 5 1/2 cups)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)

Instructions

1. Prep the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make removal easier. Set it aside while you prepare the mixture.
2. Make the Base: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and 1 cup creamy peanut butter together. Stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Add the mini marshmallows and continue stirring until they melt completely and the mixture becomes cohesive and glossy.
3. Add the Cereal: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. Fold quickly and thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated before the mixture cools and sets. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and gently press it down with a spatula or wax paper to create an even layer without compacting it too firmly.
4. Melt the Topping: Place the remaining 1 cup of peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and pourable. In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips in the same manner until fully melted and silky.
5. Add the Swirl: Pour the melted peanut butter evenly over the base layer in the pan. Next, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top in lines or dollops. Use a toothpick or butter knife to swirl the peanut butter and chocolate together, creating a beautiful marbled pattern.
6. Let Set: Allow the bars to set at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours until the topping firms up. If you want to speed up this process, refrigerate for about 45 minutes. The topping should be firm before slicing.
7. Slice and Serve: Once fully set, cut the bars into squares using a sharp knife. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife blade between slices. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

• Store bars at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
• For a softer texture after chilling, let bars sit at room temperature before serving.
• Use parchment paper in the pan for easier removal and cleanup.
• If you prefer thicker bars, consider using a smaller pan than 9×13 inches.
• Milk chocolate chips can be substituted for semi-sweet according to taste preference.

Keywords: Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats, No Bake Treats, Chocolate Swirl Bars, Easy Dessert, Marshmallow Treats, American Dessert